Lock Rekeying in Alberton

Rekeying a lock changes its internal pin configuration so the old key no longer works and a new key is cut to match. The lock body, the handle plate, and the door hardware all stay exactly as they are — only the cylinder pins change. It is the most practical and cost-effective way to secure a property when the lock itself is in good condition but you no longer control who has keys.

When Rekeying Makes Sense

• Moving into a new house or rental — you have no way of knowing how many copies of the previous key exist
• Lost or stolen keys — especially if the keys had any identification linking them to your address
• End of a tenancy — landlords should rekey between tenants as standard practice
• Staff change — a departing employee had a key to your property
• Relationship change — a former partner or housemate had a copy

Rekeying vs. Replacing a Lock

Lock replacement is necessary when the lock is worn, damaged, corroded, or when you want a significant security upgrade to a higher-grade product. Rekeying is appropriate when the lock is functioning well and you simply need to invalidate existing keys. In most situations that Alberton homeowners describe to us, rekeying is the right solution — and it costs significantly less.

If you are unsure which applies to your situation, call us and describe what you have. We will advise honestly. See our guide on lost or stolen keys — rekey or replace for more detail.

How the Rekeying Process Works

1. We remove the lock cylinder from the door.
2. We disassemble the cylinder and replace the pin stacks to match a new key code.
3. We cut new keys to the new code.
4. We reinstall the cylinder and test all new keys before leaving.

For a standard deadbolt or rim lock, this takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes per lock. Multiple locks rekeyed in one visit attract a per-lock discount.

Lock Rekeying Pricing in Alberton

• Per lock rekeyed: from R250–R400
• Multiple locks (same visit): discounted per-lock rate — ask when you call
• Additional keys cut: from R80–R150 per key depending on type

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can any lock be rekeyed?

  Most standard residential locks can be rekeyed — Yale rim locks, deadbolts, and mortise locks. Some older or very budget-grade locks have limited pin sets that make rekeying impractical, in which case replacement may be better value. We assess on site.

• How many new keys will I get?

  We cut as many new keys as you need. Standard is two, but we can cut more at an additional per-key cost. All new keys are tested in the lock before we leave.

• Can you rekey my security gate as well?

  Yes, provided the gate lock is a standard pin-tumbler type. Some security gate locks use disc or lever mechanisms that require different handling — we advise when you describe the lock to us.